FELICITY

Chapter 5: Secret Smiles

Paula sat in the library, her textbooks spread out before her. Despite her best efforts, she found it hard to concentrate.

Her thoughts kept drifting back to Timothy and their time spent together.

She couldn’t help but feel a flutter of excitement whenever she thought about him.

Just as she was about to refocus on her studies, Timothy appeared, carrying two cups of coffee.

He had a way of brightening any room he walked into, and the library was no exception.

"Hey, Paula," he said, setting a cup in front of her. "Thought you could use a pick-me-up."

"Thanks, Timothy," Paula replied, smiling. "You read my mind."

They settled into their usual study routine, working in comfortable silence.

After a while, Timothy looked up from his notes.

"Paula, have you ever thought about what you want to do after college?" he asked, his eyes reflecting genuine curiosity.

Paula paused, considering her answer. "I’ve been thinking about pursuing a career in publishing. I love literature, and I think it would be amazing to help bring stories to life."

"That sounds perfect for you," Timothy said warmly. "You have such a passion for books. I can totally see you thriving in that world."

Paula felt a rush of warmth at his words. "Thanks, Timothy. What about you? Any plans for the future?"

Timothy leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I’m not entirely sure yet. I’m thinking about going into teaching. I want to make a difference, you know? Inspire others like some of my teachers inspired me."

"That’s wonderful," Paula said sincerely. "You’d make a great teacher."

Timothy smiled, his eyes meeting hers. "You really think so?"

"I do," Paula replied, her heart skipping a beat at the intensity of his gaze.

They continued studying, but Paula found it increasingly difficult to concentrate.

Timothy’s presence was both comforting and distracting. She noticed the way his hair fell over his forehead, the way he chewed on his pen when he was deep in thought, and the way his eyes lit up when he talked about something he was passionate about.

After a while, Timothy stretched and yawned. "I think I need a break. Want to take a walk?"

"Sure," Paula agreed, grateful for the distraction.

They left the library and wandered through the campus, talking about everything and nothing.

As they passed a group of students playing Frisbee, one of them accidentally threw the Frisbee in their direction.

Timothy caught it effortlessly and threw it back, impressing Paula.

"Nice catch," she said, laughing.

"Thanks," Timothy replied, grinning. "I’ve had some practice."

They continued walking until they reached a quiet spot near the campus fountain.

The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water. Timothy turned to Paula, a mischievous glint in his eye.

"Do you remember the first day we met?" Timothy asked, a smile playing on his lips.

Paula nodded, her heart fluttering. "How could I forget? It feels like it was just yesterday."

"It does, doesn’t it?" Timothy agreed. "I remember thinking you were really cool, and I wanted to get to know you better."

Paula’s cheeks warmed. "Really? I thought the same about you."

Timothy chuckled. "It’s funny how things work out. I’m really glad we became friends."

"Me too," Paula said softly, her eyes meeting his.

They shared a smile, the bond between them feeling stronger than ever.

Paula felt a spark of hope, a whisper of fate telling her that their connection was special.

She still wasn’t ready to confess her feelings, but she knew that their friendship was the foundation of something beautiful.

As they walked back to campus, the stars continued to shine brightly above them.

They talked about their plans for the weekend, laughing and joking as they made their way to the dorms.

Paula cherished these moments, knowing that they were building memories that would last a lifetime.

That night, as Paula lay in bed, she felt a sense of peace and happiness.

Timothy was her best friend, and she wouldn’t trade their bond for anything.

She knew that when the time was right, she would tell him how she felt. Until then, she would enjoy every moment they shared, savoring the sparks at sunset that had brought them closer together.

The days turned into weeks, and Paula and Timothy continued to spend time together, their friendship growing stronger with each passing day.

They supported each other through the challenges of college life, celebrated each other’s successes, and found comfort in their shared connection.

Paula couldn’t help but feel that their friendship was destined for something more, a beautiful journey that was just beginning.